The Original Pancake House

If you're looking for the perfect place to start your day in Champaign, The Original Pancake House is an impeccable choice. It's more than just a restaurant; it's part of a legendary American chain that has been carefully preserving the traditions of the perfect breakfast since 1953. This establishment in the USA is famous for its commitment to quality: they use only fresh eggs, real butter, and their own unique sourdough starter for the batter.

The restaurant's interior is steeped in the spirit of classic America—a cozy, family atmosphere makes it popular among both locals and travelers. A high rating of 4.7 stars confirms that guests value this place for its consistently superb flavors and friendly service that keeps them coming back.

The menu, based on ethnic pancake recipes from around the world, adds special significance to The Original Pancake House. This is a place where culinary arts meet history, offering visitors more than just a meal, but a true gastronomic experience recognized by world-class experts.

For more information or to book a table (though popular chain restaurants often operate on a first-come, first-served basis), you can use the official contact details for the restaurant in Champaign.

The main reason to visit The Original Pancake House is for an extensive tasting of batter-based dishes prepared according to unique recipes. Be sure to try the famous Apple Pancake—a massive pancake with apples and fragrant cinnamon—or the airy Dutch Baby, served with lemon and powdered sugar. Every order here turns into a small show of flavors, as many dishes look quite unusual compared to the traditional idea of pancakes.

In addition to sweet options, guests are offered hearty omelets, which are baked in the oven using a special technique that makes them incredibly fluffy. It's interesting to watch the chefs in the open or semi-open kitchen creating fresh sauces and starters from scratch every morning. This place is perfect for a slow morning, enjoying quality coffee and authentic cuisine that once impressed James Beard himself.

The Original Pancake House is conveniently located at 1909 W Springfield Ave, making it easily accessible for both city residents and passing tourists. If you are traveling by car, getting to the restaurant from the city center is easy—the trip takes only a few minutes. For guests' convenience, private parking is provided, so finding a spot for your car is usually not an issue.

For those who prefer public transport, local buses run regularly along Springfield Avenue. It is recommended to check the Champaign city bus schedules in advance to find the best time. You can also always use a taxi or popular ridesharing services, which will quickly deliver you right to the doors of this legendary pancake house.

The history of this famous chain began in 1953 in Portland, Oregon. Founders Les Highet and Erma Hueneke poured all their culinary experience into the project, collecting unique recipes for authentic pancakes and crêpes from all over the world. Their goal was to create a place where traditions of quality combined with home comfort—a key to the brand's long-standing success.

Just three years after opening, the establishment received the prestigious McCall Citation for outstanding excellence in food preparation. That same year, 1956, legendary chef James Beard included The Original Pancake House on his list of the ten best restaurants in America. Such high-level recognition instantly turned the small pancake house into a landmark of national significance.

Today, the chain has over 100 locations across the USA and Canada, remaining a third-generation family business. Despite its large-scale expansion, the restaurant in Champaign, like other franchises, strictly adheres to the original 70-year-old recipes, maintaining the very same taste that once won over culinary critics in Paris and New York.

A visit to this restaurant is not just a quick snack, but a full gastronomic ritual. On average, guests should expect to spend 45–90 minutes. If you plan to stop by on a weekday during quiet hours, 45 minutes is plenty to enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a portion of signature pancakes.

However, on weekends and during morning peak hours, the restaurant's popularity increases, and the wait time for a table and order preparation may increase. For a leisurely family brunch to discuss plans for the day, it's better to set aside about 2 hours to fully experience the welcoming atmosphere of this iconic American spot without rushing.

The Original Pancake House in Champaign specializes in breakfast and early lunches, so its doors are open primarily in the first half of the day. It's the perfect place for early birds or those who love the brunch format.

The working hours are as follows:

• Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM

After a hearty breakfast at The Original Pancake House, it's a great idea to take a walk around the neighborhood. The city of Champaign offers many interesting locations: from historic university buildings to cozy parks that will help make your day full and interesting.